What happened
On 19 May 1998, a Luton LA4A Minor, registration G-BBEA, was conducting a private flight for the purpose of practicing circuits at White Waltham Airfield. The weather conditions were favorable, with a dry grass runway and light winds from 090 degrees at 6 knots.
During the approach to Runway 11, the pilot determined that the aircraft was too high to begin the flare at the usual time. With the engine at idle, the pilot continued down the runway to reach the appropriate height before applying full aft stick. This resulted in a touchdown that was noted as being harder than the pilot's previous landings.
Upon contact with the ground, the left wheel of the aircraft failed and detached. This caused the aircraft to slew violently to the left, eventually coming to rest on its propeller. The pilot was able to shut off the fuel and electrical systems and exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of the landing and the mechanical failure of the landing gear. The investigation established that the aircraft sustained significant damage, specifically to the propeller, which was deemed beyond repair.
Findings
- The landing was characterized by a harder than normal touchdown following an attempt to correct for an excessive approach height.
- The failure of the left wheel led to a violent lateral excursion on the grass runway.
- The pilot sustained no injuries during the event.